Saunf is a good home remedy for many stomach and gastrointestinal problems. In Ayurveda the effect of saunf is considered to be light, non-unctuous, dry and cold. It is an appetizer, carminative/purgative and also promotes strength.
Joint pain
Tie some saunf leaves in a cotton cloth. Warm them in a saucepan and apply on the affected parts when tolerably hot.
Anaemia
Boil 6 tsp each crushed saunf and red rose petals in 1 1/2 teacup water and strain. Take twice daily.
Stomach
For indigestion take 3-5 g of saunf powder with 1g powder of roasted jeera (cumin) and rock salt (as required) with warm water 3 times daily.
In diarrhoea and abdominal pain take 3-5 g saunf powder with butter milk 3-4 times daily.
In case of loss of appetite 3-5 g powder of roasted saunf with butter milk, little pepper powder and rock salt may be taken 2 times daily. Decoction of saunf prepared after boiling one part (5g) saunf in four parts (20 ml) water (till it reduces to about half the quantity) may be given to children at hourly intervals.
For colic pain in infants boil (for 2-3 minutes) a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a cup of water and keep it to cool for 15-20 minutes. Strain and add 1-2 teaspoon to every feed of milk of the baby.
For gas/constipation Roast saunf slightly on a heated ladle. Powder, sieve and bottle. Take 1/2 tsp of this mix twice a day along with warm water.
Respiratory
To treat cough, gargle with warm saturated solution of saunf water.
Breathing/Fever/Stomach Ache Boil 2 tbsp saunf in 1 teacup water till it is reduced to half. Filter. take 1 tbsp every morning and evening for a few days.
Eyes
Make a decoction of 1 tbsp saunf in ½ teacup water till it is reduced to half. Filter This filtrate, when used to wash the eyes frequently is reported to strengthen the eye muscles. Good cleansing solution for inflamed eyes.
Obesity
Saunf is a fat-Buster. Saunf tea extracts all of fennel's medicinal goodness, and can be substituted for tea or coffee. Boil 1 tsp saunf in 1 cup toned milk for 5 to 10 minutes. Filter. Add sugar if necessary. Sip as hot as possible.
A word of caution, in excess it stimulates menstruation in women and in very high doses, it can cause intoxication.
